Zöe Franklin
MP for Guildford
Lib Dem
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
My constituent, Hannah, tragically ended her life using a substance purchased from overseas. Following her death, the coroner issued a prevention of future deaths report containing specific recommendations. Since 2019, the Molly Rose Foundation has identified at least 65 similar cases in which coroners have made recommendations to separate Government Departments. Progress on these issues has been slow and vulnerable people continue to be left at risk as a result. Will the Prime Minister set out what steps the Government will take to ensure systematic oversight of coroners' reports and their findings? Will he support proposals for an independent, national oversight mechanism to track trends of preventable deaths and ensure that lessons are learned so that future lives can be saved?
Context
Coroners' reports have made recommendations to prevent deaths from substances purchased overseas, but progress has been slow.
Keir Starmer
I thank the hon. Member for raising both the individual and the general case and reassure her that we are working on the issue.
Assessment
specific steps and mechanisms
We Are Working On The Issue
Session: PMQs
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What assessment has the Secretary of State made of the potential impact of planning policy on green-belt land in my constituency, which falls within the Guildford borough area? Can she outline what steps her Government will take to protect green spaces for communities by ensuring that developers are directed towards genuine brownfield sites first, rather than development being concentrated on land around Guildford that was previously protected by the green belt?
Context
Concern over the impact of increased housing need and grey belt definition on green spaces in Guildford borough.
Angela Rayner
We are making sure we are strengthening and clarifying the rules around the release of grey belt, but brownfield has to be used first. We are also strengthening policy provisions to support local authorities in planning for green space at a strategic level, to ensure that green space is available and that we have the housing and infrastructure people need.
Session: Planning Green Spaces 2026-09-07
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I thank the Secretary of State and the ministerial team for their positive engagement with me and colleagues across the House who have been working with bereaved families and the Molly Rose Foundation on the devastating impact of suicide forums. On the new crisis response protocol, my understanding is that it is primarily designed for large-scale public safety events. Can the Secretary of State advise on whether Ofcom will consider rapid response arrangements being expanded to cover cases where compelling evidence shows that content presents a risk for suicide, so that platforms are expected to act with the same urgency to protect individual lives?
Context
MP Zöe Franklin raised concerns about the impact of suicide forums on bereaved families and asked for rapid response arrangements to be expanded.
Kanishka Narayan
I first pay tribute to the families that I have met who have raised the issue of suicide forums, which the hon. Member rightly raises. I have committed to them in the past that we will continue to press for quicker remedies for them when they suffer the worst tragedies imaginable. The Secretary of State and I will, of course, be delighted to look at whether there are ways we can make that a more systematic, rapid response.
Session: Social Media Dangerous Content 2026-07-01
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My constituent was repeatedly sexually abused by a family member. He received four concurrent 28-year prison sentences but has since been transferred to the Netherlands where he was immediately released. She lives in fear of him carrying out threats made during trial. Will the Minister meet me to discuss this case and review international prisoner transfer arrangements?
Context
A constituent was repeatedly sexually abused by a family member who received multiple prison sentences and is now living in the Netherlands, raising fears about his returning to the UK.
Jake Richards
I am happy to meet with the hon. Member and her constituent. We are working on a memorandum of understanding with Latvia, Italy, and we are speaking with officials in the Netherlands to pursue similar agreements.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-30
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What assessment has been made of hidden pockets of deprivation in places such as my own constituency? In Guildford, after housing costs, 13.2% are in poverty, but in some areas it rises to 50%. This presents specific challenges. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that children living in these pockets are not overlooked by their policy?
Context
The MP highlights specific challenges in addressing child poverty in certain neighbourhoods within her constituency, noting a significant disparity between overall statistics and local realities.
Diana R. Johnson
The 10-year strategy includes looking at deep material poverty and working with local councils, combined authorities, and mayors to address these issues in specific areas.
Session: Child Poverty 2026-06-29
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What assessment has the Solicitor General made of the potential merits of extending the victims' right to review scheme to cases involving bereaved families affected by major cross-border prosecutions such as that one?
Context
The question is prompted by the case involving Kenneth Law, a British citizen formally recognized in Canadian proceedings against him as being involved in suicide aiding and abetting. The UK's decision not to pursue extradition has left families devastated.
Ellie Reeves
I thank the hon. Lady for raising this incredibly harrowing case. As she will be aware, Kenneth Law has pleaded guilty in Canada to 14 counts of aiding and abetting suicide. Every one of the 73 victims who died in England and Wales has been formally named and recognised as part of those proceedings. Extradition proceedings carry significant legal risk and run the risk of the victims in England and Wales not being involved in proceedings.
Session: Victims Right to Review
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The school holidays are approaching, many low-income families in my constituency of Guildford are asking how they will get through the summer with rising costs and conflicts continuing. Children from Holy Trinity school raised concerns about this issue during a recent visit. What concrete support will the Government provide to protect the most vulnerable households from further cost pressures?
Context
Tensions in the Middle East have increased energy and food prices, putting additional pressure on struggling households. The Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister warned that families face difficulty for 'eight-plus months' ahead.
Rachel Reeves
We have lifted 450,000 children out of poverty by getting rid of the two-child limit in universal credit from this month. We are expanding free childcare for children aged between nine months and five years to help parents with costs. Additionally, we have reduced energy bills by £117, frozen rail fares and prescription charges, and provided support for heating oil users.
Session: Conflict in the Middle East Cost of Living
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If his Department will review the adequacy of the treatment of redundancy payments by the Child Maintenance Service. Redundancy payments are not taken into account and only capital may be considered through an asset variation if at least £31,250 is held in a bank or savings account. The service considers redundancy payment when looking at arrears.
Context
Redundancy payments are not considered in standard maintenance calculation, raising concerns about families' support.
Andrew Western
Redundancy payments up to £80,000 are tax-exempt and do not show in earnings information provided by HMRC. The service may consider redundancy payment when looking at arrears.
Session: Child Maintenance Service 2026-04-27 (2)
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My constituent successfully appealed at tribunal, with both the judge and Child Maintenance Service agreeing that declared income did not reflect true earnings. Despite receiving substantial redundancy payments and holding significant assets including property and pensions, no maintenance is being paid. This exposes a gap in how redundancy payments are treated by CMS. Will the Minister urgently review this?
Context
A constituent's case where a successful tribunal appeal led to arrears being awarded but no maintenance payment due to significant redundancy and asset holdings highlights the issue.
Andrew Western
Part of the challenge is that legislation requires using earnings information provided by HMRC, and since redundancy payments up to £80,000 are tax-exempt, they do not show up. I will share concerns raised with Baroness Sherlock.
Session: Child Maintenance Service 2026-04-27 (2)
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I wish the House and you, Mr Speaker, a happy St George's day. I welcome the fact that the Government are taking steps to improve and deepen our trading relationship with Europe, which is absolutely crucial to businesses right across my constituency, which have told me again and again of the challenges they face as a direct result of this flawed Brexit process. Could the Minister set out what plans he has to ensure that proper parliamentary scrutiny is given to anything relating to improving relations with the EU, given that we no longer have a Select Committee that deals directly with those issues?
Context
The importance of parliamentary scrutiny in relation to improving trading relationships with Europe.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
There will be a Bill—a piece of primary legislation—going through Parliament this year, which will of course have appropriate scrutiny, as will our relationship with the EU going forward. I very much look forward to those debates.
Session: UK-EU Relations
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Just before Easter, a development of 500-plus homes in my constituency, predicated on building a brand-new Howard of Effingham school, was withdrawn after a decade of commitment to the plan. The developer is expected to proceed with a new application without a school. The community and school are understandably angry and upset. What powers does the Minister have to ensure that developers can be held to such long-term commitments, and will he meet me to discuss the issue and its implications in my constituency and more widely?
Matthew Pennycook
The hon. Lady will appreciate that Ministers cannot comment on individual planning applications or local plans, but I am more than happy to meet her and discuss the general issues arising from the case she mentions.
Session: Topical Questions
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What discussions has he had with local authorities on the adequacy of the provision of local youth services?
Context
The MP inquires about discussions regarding the adequacy of provision for local youth services.
Alison McGovern
In December, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport published the national youth strategy, our 10-year plan to ensure that young people can access the services and opportunities they need to thrive, and I speak regularly to local leaders about this work. The local government finance settlement makes available £78 billion for English councils this year.
Session: Local Youth Services
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What discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Chancellor about reducing industrial energy costs?
Context
A third-generation advanced manufacturer faces increased business rates and energy costs despite transitioning to renewables.
Chris McDonald
Businesses are incentivised to invest in renewable energy through our British industrial competitiveness scheme, which aims to reduce electricity costs for energy-intensive sectors. Results of consultation will be published shortly.
Session: Businesses Cost of Energy
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What recent discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues on supporting businesses with high energy costs, and what specific actions will be taken to address this issue?
Context
Businesses are struggling with high energy costs despite the government's initiatives.
Chris McDonald
We are addressing high energy costs through initiatives such as the British industry supercharger and the new British industrial competitiveness scheme, which aim to reduce electricity costs for energy-intensive sectors while delivering our clean power 2030 mission. We intend to consult on further options to make low-carbon heat economically competitive.
Session: Businesses Cost of Energy
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His Majesty’s inspectorate of probation found that weaknesses in risk assessment, information sharing and planning in domestic abuse cases are leaving victims at greater risk of harm and without consistent safeguarding across Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Will the Secretary of State set out what steps his Department will take to ensure that the changes identified in the report are implemented and that victims of domestic abuse receive effective support through the criminal justice system?
Context
His Majesty’s inspectorate of probation found weaknesses in risk assessment, information sharing, and planning that leave victims at greater risk of harm. The inspectorate highlighted issues across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Jake Richards)
I will look at that report and personally make sure that we consider what the recommendations are and how they can be implemented. This Government have put record investment into our probation services. We are also harnessing technology to ensure that probation officers can do what they are trained and want to do, which is to work with offenders to rehabilitate them, rather than be bogged down in paperwork. I will look at that specific case and come back to the hon. Lady.
Session: Topical Questions
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In my constituency, schools highlight not necessarily an issue with early identification but lack of resources and places for students after they have been identified. How will your approach to early access ensure that early identification is matched by suitable provision?
Context
Schools in Guildford are concerned about the availability of resources and appropriate placements once a child has been identified as having special educational needs or disabilities.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
I have had many conversations with school leaders about this issue. The hon. Lady is right; early identification and access are not always the same thing. Early access includes support beyond the school gate, such as speech and language therapy and occupational therapy. These points are central to our thinking in respect of reforms we intend to introduce through the schools White Paper.
Session: SEND Support Access
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Will the Minister set out the steps the Department is taking to support community health hubs in areas like this ward, in order to bring GP and wider services together locally and improve facilities and access for my residents?
Context
The local GP surgery in Bellfields and Slyfield ward is currently operating from a small space within a commercial property, despite the growing needs of the community. The service provides excellent care but faces physical constraints.
Stephen Kinnock
We have the £102 million primary care estate fund, which can help with refurbishments and improving the functionality of primary care, particularly GP surgeries. If the hon. Member writes to me about the specifics of that case, I am sure that the relevant officials can give her the answer she needs.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Molly Rose Foundation’s latest report makes it clear that bereaved families are deeply concerned that Ofcom has relied on voluntary measures, such as geo-blocking, to deal with pro-suicide forums. Can the Secretary of State explain what steps her Government are taking to ensure Ofcom moves beyond voluntary compliance and uses its full Online Safety Act 2023 powers to require the removal or blocking of suicide-promoting content?
Context
The Molly Rose Foundation’s latest report highlights concerns from bereaved families about the voluntary measures implemented by Ofcom to address pro-suicide forums.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
I thank the hon. Lady for her question. This is a serious issue, and we need to make swifter and stronger progress on it. I regularly meet Ofcom and its chief executive; indeed, I did so yesterday. I want to make sure that we do not have the delays and that we have stronger action, and this is a point I will be bringing up in future.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State now go further, explicitly condemning the actions and ensuring Britain pushes back against that escalation and any further actions outside international law by the Trump Administration?
Context
The MP raised concerns over recent US military actions off the coast of Venezuela, calling for a stronger response from Britain to condemn such acts.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
We always support international law and the upholding of it. The UK is not involved in those operations. More widely, the UK does not accept the legitimacy of the Administration put in place by Nicolás Maduro following the 2024 election and we support a negotiated transition in Venezuela.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the marked deterioration of civil liberties and democratic freedoms in Hong Kong since the introduction of the national security law, can the Minister outline what specific steps the Government are taking to support those affected by these abuses, both in the UK and abroad? Many of my constituents are Hong Kong nationals who have made their home here through the BNO route, and they remain deeply worried about family members who are still in Hong Kong.
Context
The question follows the submission of the Government’s latest six-monthly report on Hong Kong, detailing the impact of national security legislation.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Seema Malhotra)
We will not tolerate any attempts by foreign Governments to coerce, intimidate, harass or harm their critics in the UK or overseas. UK Ministers have raised directly with Hong Kong and Chinese officials our concerns about what is happening in Hong Kong, and we will continue to do so. Such actions are also damaging to Hong Kong’s reputation as an open and international city.
Session: Hong Kong Human Rights Violations
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It has been very interesting to hear the back and forth on this question. It is not just about East Sussex, of course; it is about all the councils up for reorganisation. Councils across the country that are due to have elections next year have received letters asking them whether they would consider cancelling them. Will the Minister set out the content of those letters, and will he stand with the Liberal Democrat by backing our amendments, which seek absolute assurances for councils across the country that are putting money into organising those elections?
Context
Letters have been sent to councils asking if they would consider cancelling elections.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Steve Reed)
It does not surprise me that the Conservatives do not understand consultation, but it does surprise me that it is also difficult for the Liberal Democrats. We are engaging with the councils that will be affected. There is precedence for this where elections would result in only a very short term in office. Our intention, and my preference, is for the elections to go ahead. We want to cut the cost of politics, simplify decision making for local people, and deliver stronger economic growth and better public services in every part of the country.
Session: East Sussex County Council Elections
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I was interested in hearing the Minister’s answers to the previous questions but true access to justice must include those still imprisoned due to legal tests now ruled wrong. Will the Government consider adopting a review mechanism similar to my amendment in the Sentencing Bill, which would create a statutory process for reviewing convictions?
Context
The question pertains to the issue of people still imprisoned based on legal tests that have been deemed incorrect, particularly those from marginalised communities convicted under joint enterprise.
The Minister for Courts and Legal Services (Sarah Sackman)
The review of criminal law in this area is very delicate, involving common law and case law. We are keeping it under review.
Session: Access to Justice
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In June, the Department made the welcome announcement of legislation to allow proxy voting and remote attendance, which will help to drive up the diversity of councillors across the country, but the Government have not yet set out a timeline. Will the Minister advise the House on when a timeline will be shared, and whether the Government have considered including the changes in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill?
Context
Legislation to allow proxy voting and remote attendance was announced in June, but a specific timeline has not been provided.
Samantha Dixon
The Government are committed to an election Bill, which will be coming in due course—very shortly, I imagine—and I am sure the hon. Member will be able to explore those issues further at that time.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is really good to hear about that partnership working with local communities and local government. In June, I had the privilege of going to the launch of a new innovative partnership between the University of Surrey and Guildford and Waverley borough councils, which is seeking to apply the university’s global research expertise to real-world problems faced by local communities, from creating better housing to addressing the shortage of planners. How will the Government support important initiatives like this, which seek to deliver on the Government’s aim to innovate and improve public service delivery and which matter even more as local government reorganisation progresses across Surrey?
Context
In June, Zöe Franklin attended the launch of a new innovative partnership between the University of Surrey and Guildford and Waverley borough councils. The initiative aims to apply university research expertise to real-world problems such as housing shortages and planning issues.
Georgia Gould (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
As I said, one of the best parts of my job is getting to visit amazing projects like that partnership, and I would be delighted to see the work that is happening there. Our missions are not just for Government but for the whole country. We need councils, universities and communities to come together, so that partnership is incredibly important. As I set out, the test, learn and grow programme is about finding those innovators and partnerships and spreading great practice. I look forward to hearing more about it.
Session: Public Service Delivery
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I thank the Solicitor General for her answer. In light of the Supreme Court’s judgment defining sex in the Equality Act 2010 as strictly biological, and public comments from the Equality and Human Rights Commission suggesting trans individuals may not be entitled to privacy protections under article 8, what steps are the Solicitor General and her office taking to ensure that domestic law remains fully aligned with the UK’s obligations under the European convention on human rights, particularly articles 3, 8 and 14? Do the Government intend to clarify or consolidate domestic equality law and the ECHR obligations, to avoid growing legal divergence?
Context
In the context of the Supreme Court’s judgment in the For Women Scotland case and public comments from the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Zöe Franklin is concerned about potential legal divergence between domestic equality law and the UK's obligations under the European convention on human rights.
The Solicitor General
As to the steps that the Law Officers are taking, I am afraid that I have to refer to the Law Officers’ convention. With regard to the hon. Member’s wider point and the Supreme Court’s ruling in the For Women Scotland case, the Government have been very clear that we will continue to support single-sex spaces, while also affirming the important rights that trans people have and continue to have under the Equality Act.
Session: European Convention on Human Rights UK Obligations
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My constituent contacted me specifically about the digital inclusion action plan, explaining that because of his voice disability, spasmodic dysphonia, he struggles to access essential services such as banking due to difficulties with automated phone systems. There is often no clear way of bypassing these systems and alternatives like webchat are slow and ineffective. This is a growing issue for many people with communication disabilities. What steps is the Minister taking, with Cabinet colleagues, to ensure that services remain accessible?
Context
A constituent contacted Zöe Franklin due to his voice disability, spasmodic dysphonia, which makes it difficult to access essential services such as banking through automated phone systems. The constituent noted that there are no clear alternatives beyond slow and ineffective webchat.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
The hon. Lady has raised some interesting points. The digital inclusion action plan outlines five initial actions, including the establishment of an ambitious digital inclusion innovation fund which could potentially address her constituent's concern. Additionally, in the “Pathways to Work” Green Paper, we discussed making assistive technology more widely available, which may provide solutions for people with communication disabilities.
Session: Digital Exclusion
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Earlier this year, I spoke to members of my local Christians Against Poverty debt support team in Guildford, and they explained to me that they support many low-income individuals out of debt, but they are no sooner out of debt than they start accruing it again, because universal credit is insufficient to cover their basic needs due to the cost of living in areas such as Guildford. What work has the Minister done to assess whether universal credit levels are sufficient to cover the varied and increasing basic living costs across the country, and to prevent people on the lowest incomes from getting further into difficulty and debt?
Context
Local Christians Against Poverty debt support team reported that many low-income individuals in Guildford struggle to stay out of debt due to insufficient universal credit, exacerbated by the high cost of living.
James Murray (Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury)
The Government have already taken action on the fair repayment rate, lowering the cap on deductions from universal credit to 15%—it was 25% before the autumn Budget last year. That will benefit 1.2 million households by an average of £420 a year, and 700,000 of the poorest families with children will benefit.
Session: Lowest Incomes Support
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Victims of domestic violence urgently need safe and stable accommodation. However, councils have no obligation to offer like-for-like housing. Too often, the duty is discharged by suggesting private rentals, which are frequently unaffordable or unsuitable for those on low incomes. That creates a significant barrier for many victims; it even places them in a situation where they choose not to leave, because they cannot have the housing that they need. Will the Minister further explain how she is taking steps to ensure that victims are offered genuinely safe, appropriate and affordable housing? Will she consider strengthening the statutory duty on councils to better support those fleeing domestic abuse?
Context
Councils often discharge the duty to provide safe housing by suggesting private rentals, which are frequently unaffordable or unsuitable for those on low incomes.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
The hon. Member will be aware that there is a massive housing shortage and that there are challenges around supported housing. We need to ensure, as we are doing, that victims of domestic violence get the support they need, which is why we provided the additional uplift of £30 million, to a total of £160 million. We are working across Government to tackle the root causes of violence against women, within which work economic and housing support are crucial. I look forward to working with her and others on this very important agenda.
Session: Victims of Domestic Abuse Accommodation
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Could you outline what support is available for churches across Guildford facing significant shortfalls due to the £25,000 cap? Can this also be addressed in any future meetings?
Context
Churches in Guildford face significant shortfalls due to the £25,000 cap on the grant. One church expected to recover VAT but now faces a major funding shortfall.
Marsha De Cordova
I commit to writing to the hon. Member on this issue, having looked into what other support is available and including them in any future meetings to address these issues.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme
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What steps are the Government taking to address diesel islands, which are sections of track without electrification such as those between Reading and my constituency, to support the decarbonisation of the transport sector and encourage the transition to cleaner rail travel?
Context
There are sections of track without electrification, such as those between Reading and Guildford.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
The Rail Minister in the other place is very much focused on how we decarbonise our rail sector. A combination of electrification and extended use of batteries can allow us to do that. I am sure he will be happy to write to the hon. Lady about the specifics of the case she raises.
Session: Decarbonising Transport
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Across my constituency of Guildford, the local flood forums work tirelessly, bringing together agencies and residents to address the growing concerns they have about flooding. Will the Minister provide detail on how the Government will ensure that constituencies like mine, which often miss out because they are semi-rural and urban, get the funding they need to address current flooding issues? How can we mitigate the growing flooding issues across Guildford in a holistic and sustainable way?
Context
The local flood forums in Guildford are addressing growing concerns about flooding. Rural and semi-rural areas often miss out on the necessary funding under previous formulas.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Hardy)
The hon. Lady is right to highlight that under the previous funding formula, rural communities often missed out on the defences they desperately need. We have set out plans to consult on a new formula that is going to be announced fairly shortly, and she will be very welcome to contribute to that.
Session: Flood Preparedness Projects
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In light of the findings from the Lords Communications and Digital Committee regarding 1.7 million households lacking internet access, will the Secretary of State outline how the Government are working to ensure no one is left behind by the impending switchover to Internet Protocol Television?
Context
In 2023, the Lords Communications and Digital Committee found that 1.7 million households in Britain were without internet connectivity.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
Broadcast TV is legally protected until 2034. The Government are committed to ensuring audiences can access television in a manner that suits them. Too many people are excluded from digital activity due to lack of basic skills; thus, I will be launching the digital inclusion plan in the near future. I hope to meet with the hon. Member to brief her on this work and incorporate her ideas as we develop it.
Session: Topical Questions
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Young emerging artists, the very future of our multibillion-pound music industry, are the worst impacted by the bureaucracy we now have. Will the Minister reconsider negotiating a European-wide exemption from visas, work permits and travelling restrictions to set UK artists free from frustrating red tape?
Context
The question follows up on bureaucratic challenges faced by young emerging artists, who are crucial to a multibillion-pound music industry. The MP seeks specific actions to alleviate these issues.
Stephen Doughty
The hon. Lady raises very important issues, and we recognise the challenges faced by the sector that she sets out. We are committed to helping our touring artists without seeking a return to freedom of movement. I will work closely with my right hon. Friend the Minister for the Cabinet Office, as well as with Culture, Media and Sport Ministers and other colleagues, on these issues.
Session: Artists Touring in the EU
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What support does his Department provide to UK artists touring in the EU?
Context
The question arises from concerns over support for UK artists who are now facing bureaucratic challenges post-Brexit when performing in the EU.
Stephen Doughty
Culture, Media and Sport Ministers are responsible for Government policy on touring artists, with support from colleagues across Government. The Government provide support for artists via the music export growth scheme, funded by the Department for Business and Trade and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and the international showcase fund, funded by the DBT.
Session: Artists Touring in the EU
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Will the Secretary of State commit to ensuring that large energy suppliers work with community energy organisations to generate and sell electricity locally at discounted rates, and provide fair community benefits, as proposed by the Liberal Democrats?
Context
Community energy organisations propose discounts and fair benefits for local electricity generation.
Ed Miliband
The hon. Lady raises the important issue that, as a country, we are massively underpowered on community energy. As part of the GB Energy local power plan we will be trying to change that, learning from countries such as Germany and Denmark, which do much better than us. We will certainly look at the issues she raises.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
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Ministerial Statement
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Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
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Ministerial Statement
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The Planning Bill - Various Lords Amendments
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Bill Debate
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Moves an amendment to the Lords' amendments, proposing further modifications to address concerns raised by the House of Commons and to maintain control over certain aspects of local government structu...
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
23 April 2026
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Local Government and Regeneration Bill - Lords amendments engaging Commons financial privilege and other Lords amendments to be discussed
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Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to disagree with Lords amendment 2. Proposes several Government motions to disagree with multiple Lords amendments and offers alternatives in lieu of others.
Local Government Reorganisation
26 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
60.9%
56 of 92 votes
Aye Votes
42
45.7% of votes
No Votes
14
15.2% of votes
Abstentions
36
39.1% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
34
Ministerial Questions Asked
35
House of Commons Debates Involved
0
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
92
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+154% above average
This MP:
34
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+620% above average
This MP:
35
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-12% below average
This MP:
60.9
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Zöe Franklin's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.